Banks’ lunch date with Dotcom questioned
Evidence from US businessmen brought into case.
Former ACT MP John Banks knew about the Kim Dotcom’s donations to his mayoral campaign and knew the money would be anonymous, the Court of Appeal has heard.
Mr Banks went to the appeal court today to fight a conviction for knowingly filing a false electoral return, NZME reports.
Earlier this year Mr Banks was sentenced to two month’s community detention by Justice Ed Wylie in the High Court at Auckland.
Crown lawyer Paul Dacre QC today said there were "certainly" discussions about the donations, if not at lunch, at some stage.
Representing John Banks, David Jones QC presented affidavits by two American businessmen who said they were at the lunch and say there was no discussion about the donation.
Mr Dotcom's wife Mona and Mr Banks' estranged wife Amanda, were also at the lunch, the court has heard.
Justices Ellen France, John Wild and Forrest Miller reserved their decision.
Victoria Young
Wed, 29 Oct 2014
Wed, 29 Oct 2014
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Banks’ lunch date with Dotcom questioned
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